By Madiba Singhateh
In this week’s environmental column, we caught up with Mr. Abdoulie Faye, the Acting Secretary General of the Gambia Red Cross Society, to discuss their response to floods and the impacts of climate change.
According to Mr. Faye, the Gambia Red Cross Society has registered the names of approximately 700 flood victims based on data from the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA).
“This year, we have been witnessing significant rainfall-related disasters, including floods,” Mr. Faye told Foroyaa Newspaper. “Climate change and erratic rainfall patterns are contributing to these issues, and we are actively working to mitigate their impacts.”
Established by an act of parliament in 1966, the Gambia Red Cross Society has been providing humanitarian services in disaster relief, health, and other areas of need.
“Since its inception, the Red Cross has been the partner of choice for humanitarian work in The Gambia,” Mr. Faye said.
The organization operates within the framework of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
Mr. Faye explained that traditionally, the Red Cross has responded to disasters as they occur. However, this year, they have adopted a new approach known as “anticipatory action.” “This approach focuses on analyzing hazards and taking preemptive measures based on early warnings,” he said. “Rather than reacting to disasters after they happen, we aim to prevent them from becoming full-blown crises by engaging with communities and preparing them in advance.”
The anticipatory action approach involves developing a simplified early action protocol for floods, focusing on key areas such as Kanifing Municipality, the West Coast, and the North Bank Region. “By addressing these hazards before they escalate, we can better prepare communities and mitigate the impacts of floods,” Mr. Faye explained.
Despite these efforts, Mr. Faye noted that the Gambia has been experiencing erratic rainfall and dry spells this year, exacerbating the effects of climate change. “For instance, between September 1st and 12th, the rainfall was sparse and irregular,” he said. “Heavy rains, floods, and even windstorms have affected households, agricultural production, and overall food security.”
According to the Harmonized Framework used to analyze food and nutrition insecurity, over 200,000 people are projected to experience severe food insecurity starting from the JAS period (July-August-September). “During the lean season, food scarcity becomes a significant issue,” Mr. Faye said. “Staples like rice and millet are consumed faster than they can be replenished, leading to increased food insecurity.”
To address these challenges, the Red Cross is mobilizing resources and seeking partnerships with the government and UN agencies to provide support to affected households. “We are also engaged in tree planting initiatives in the North Bank Region to combat deforestation and its impact on climate change,” Mr. Faye added. “Although we don’t face heat waves, extreme temperatures are becoming more prevalent.”
Mr. Faye acknowledged the challenges faced by the Red Cross, including limited resources and increasing demand for humanitarian services.
“If we have over 200,000 people facing food insecurity, we need to assess whether we can support them adequately,” he said. “We rely on Gambians to support our work, and even a small contribution can make a difference.”
In conclusion, Mr. Faye highlighted the Red Cross’ commitment to maintaining effective communication and coordination through their emergency operation center in Kanifing. “Our volunteer network plays a crucial role in communicating before and after disasters, ensuring that data flows seamlessly from regional branches to our headquarters,” he said.
The Gambia Red Cross Society continues to work tirelessly to address the impacts of climate change and disaster, striving to support those in need despite the challenges they face.
